Product review site Engadget is reporting that Spotify has recently launched a test website to sell tickets to shows directly to fans. The news comes after Engadet’s June 2021 reporting that the acclaimed digital streaming provider was considering expanding its operations into the ticketed events market.
The test is being conducted amid an incredibly low-key backdrop, with very little fanfare or announcement from the Swedish firm. Though, notable acts such as Osees and Dirty Honey are among the several acts Spotify is selling tickets for currently.
Obviously, were Spotify to step into this market permanently, the implications could be significant, as it would create an immediate avenue for bands that want to sell tickets direct to fans, and potentially be another firewall against bots and scalpers that are currently making money hand over fist at the expense of fans.
It remains to be seen what happens of this venture from Spotify going forward, but one thing seems clear: the beloved digital networks appear to be at existential crossroads.